Are you looking for a laid back approach to exploring North Wales’ beautiful scenery? Perhaps you fancy a quiet and peaceful stroll listening to the waves crashing, or birds twittering away in the trees. Not only does North Wales have plenty of activities to dive into, but it also allows you to enjoy a lazy weekend whilst exploring the great outdoors. Experience the sights of vibrant blossoming gardens and tranquil waters, as well as the array of wildlife rustling away.
Check out some of the places we have chosen that will ensure that your visit with us is one to remember this summer.
Fairy Glen Gorge, Betws-y-Coed
Named the Fairy Glen for the supposedly mythical sprites that were said to once live here, this spot is one of North Wales’ famous beauty spots. Featuring wooded banks and rock walls draped in vegetation which only adds to the charm of this magnificent place. This peaceful wood is decorated in a variety of different tree specimens and woodland flowers, seeing a damp and shady slope with a gentle stream running through. Thrushes, blackbirds, robins, tits, wrens and even grey wagtails live here, if you listen close enough you may be able to hear their song or see them flit from rock to rock catching insects to feed their young. Be sure to get a few snaps here to impress your loved ones.
The gorge can be accessed by train, bus and car. The site can also be accessed by one of the many walking routes and is now included in the North Wales Path network, making it even more accessible than ever.
Portmeirion Village, Gwynedd
Transport into what feels like the streets of Italy at Portmeirion Village, designed and built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975. This beautifully designed village is filled with great pastel coloured architecture and wonderful gardens with wildlife.
Visit for a day, stay overnight or even for a special event such as a wedding.
Bodnant Gardens, Tal-y-Cafn
Nestled in the Conwy Valley, Bodnant Garden was created by Henry Pochin who bought the splendid garden in 1874. Victorian industrialist, Pochic, enlisted the skills of a landscape designer Edward Milner to help develop the Victorian shrub garden, the distinct sloping valley sides and the famous Laburnum Arch. This fantastic romantic water garden is still ever popular today. Maintained by the National Trust, the gardens boast bright vivid colours featuring different flowers all year round. Spring sees daffodils, camellias, magnolias and rhododendrons, and in the summer the scent of roses, lily ponds, herbaceous beds and buzzing wildflower meadows. Autumn offers a kaleidoscope of rich autumn leaves and frosted landscapes in winter. Visit the spectacle that is Laburnum Arch, the 180 ft long tunnel, and experience an exquisite golden shower.
Make sure you pop into the pavilion or magnolia tearoom for some tasty treats. There are also many events going on at Bodnant Garden all year round so keep your eyes peeled.
Plas Tan Y Bwlch, House and Gardens, Maentwrog
In an amazing location overlooking the valley of the river Dwryd, and in the heart of the National Park, Plas Tan y Bwlch, you will find some of the most spectacular scenery in Britain, and within easy reach. This 17th century country house is formerly the Welsh home of the Oakley family who were once owners of the world’s largest subterranean quarry. Today, why don’t you take a trip over and enjoy the inherited gardens which have meticulously tended gardens, thoughtfully engineered steps and paths as well as native and exotic plants adjacent. Why not round off your visit by sitting in front of one of the most beautiful scenic views in Snowdonia whilst tucking into a delicious home-made cake and cup of tea?
Not only does the surrounding area of Snowdonia offer beautiful scenery, but Henstent Park does too! You can secure your very own holiday home here, allowing you to explore the idyllic countryside whenever you wish.